Damon Hill Auctions Off his Electric Guitar for Halow Charity

Published on: 25 Oct, 2023
Updated on: 25 Oct, 2023

Formula One star Damon Hill OBE auctioned off his prized Fender Stratocaster electric guitar at a fundraiser in aid of Guildford’s halow project charity.

The instrument, which was signed by singer Chris Rea, went under the hammer for £2,600.

halow fundraiser John Stevens holding the guitar at the auction.

A spokesperson for halow said Damon (who is halow’s patron) was a Formula One driver between 1992-1999, winning the World Championship in 1996. He has played guitar with famous musicians such as George Harrison, as well as on Def Leppard’s 1999 album Euphoria.

Following his retirement from the track he formed a band called The Conrods in 2001 and performed internationally in aid of a range of charities.

Damon Hill OBE (left) with halow fundraiser John Stevens at the event in London.

Damon, who is the charity’s patron, said: “Thanks to everyone who supported halow’s fundraising event. halow supports young adults with a learning disability and is a cause close to my heart – so much so that I donated my guitar to the fundraising event.”

The party, held in London, was organised by halow fundraiser John Stevens and raised over £65,000. This will go towards its work supporting over 200 young people across Surrey.

Damon Hill with some of halow’s youngsters at the Festival of Karting he organised in aid of the charity in July.

Founded in 2006, the cause provides youngsters with learning difficulties and autism with the chance to flourish and become more independent through social get-togethers, courses and trips. Many come to halow having dropped out of education and are unemployed, lonely and struggling with their mental health.

John Stevens said: “Thank you to everyone who bought tickets, came along and gave so generously. We’re overwhelmed by your incredible support.”